SASKATOON — The Gitzel family, led by Tim Gitzel, has pledged their support to help address the mental health challenges faced by college students pursuing their university degrees. The Gitzels have donated $1 million to the University of Saskatchewan as part of the institution's "Be What the World Needs Campaign" to enhance access to mental health support.
U of S President Peter Stoicheff expressed his gratitude as he announced the generous contribution made by the Gitzel family, including Tim, his wife Bonnie, and their children Ty and Bailey. It is worth noting that all family members have earned their degrees at the University of Saskatchewan, with Bailey herself recently joining other graduates from the College of Kinesiology.
Tim Gitzel, the president and chief executive officer of uranium producer Cameco, revealed that the decision to donate to the university's mental health program stemmed from discussions with President Stoicheff and other U of S leaders. The family chose to assist the mental health initiative rather than focusing on a specific college, as they believed it would significantly impact the entire university community.
"We want to help people because people have helped us. We all came through the university at different times and degrees. Rather than picking specific colleges, we just said what would make a difference for the whole university. We talked to President Stoicheff and [other leaders] they said: 'What about mental health?'" explained Gitzel.
Gitzel emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being, drawing upon his experiences at the university decades ago when such resources were not readily available. Given the staggering number of 40,000 visits to the wellness center last year, Gitzel acknowledged the need to ensure sufficient resources are accessible to those seeking assistance.
Keen to extend the impact of their donation, Gitzel encouraged other private companies and organizations to contribute to the Gitzel Family Fund for Mental Health. The funds generated will be directed towards the Student Wellness Centre, overseen by Director Jocelyn Orb.
"The wellness centre would be happy to receive additional support. The university is currently engaged in the 'Be What the World Needs Campaign,' a major fundraising effort. We are constantly seeking assistance, and if individuals wish to contribute to the wellness centre or mental health, their contributions would undoubtedly be greatly appreciated," expressed Gitzel.
Orb shared that the funding injection would enable them to increase staffing hours and hire additional personnel for the wellness centre. Furthermore, they plan to enhance the peer health volunteer program, encouraging students to support their fellow students in need.
"We will allocate additional hours for one of our physicians. Additionally, we will create a new position for an addiction specialist counsellor and hire another mental health nurse. Despite having one full-time staff member, the demand for our services has exceeded our capacity," Orb stated.
To maximize awareness and participation in the peer health group program, Orb outlined plans to disseminate information across the campus through various channels. They aim to engage students early, emphasizing the program's significance and offering avenues for questions and inquiries.
The impact of promoting the peer health group program on campus has already been profound, attracting students from diverse academic backgrounds. Ella Goo, a recent Bachelor of Science in Anatomy and Cell Biology graduate joined as a volunteer in the mental health wellness group before becoming a coordinator for the students of colour group, focusing on cultural inclusivity and culture shock.
Initially skeptical about the prevalence of mental health struggles among college students, Goo's perspective changed after experiencing the challenges firsthand. She underscored the value of available professional support on campus, emphasizing its transformative impact on her university experience.
In praising the Gitzel family's contribution, President Stoicheff acknowledged the significance of addressing mental health issues on campus and expressed deep gratitude for their support.
He recognized Tim Gitzel's invaluable insights and expertise as a valued campaign member, underscoring mental health’s critical role in students' academic success.
The Gitzel family's substantial donation is a beacon of hope, illuminating a path toward a more inclusive and supportive university environment where students' mental well-being is prioritized and their needs are met.
